You’re starting to worry about the person you care for still being behind the wheel. You’re not alone, and you’re not overreacting. Maybe you’ve seen them hesitate at an intersection or forget how to get home. When those red flags show up, the next step can feel overwhelming.
How do you know when it’s time to intervene? And how do you do it kindly and clearly?
This post walks you through the first steps with confidence and compassion.
When Concern Becomes a Call to Action
Driving requires split-second decisions, strong memory recall, and constant awareness of surroundings, all areas dementia gradually affects.
Once you’ve started noticing changes, you may wonder if it’s time to take the keys away or just keep monitoring.
The law firm Feller & Wendt has an excellent post on driving safely while aging that covers everything from night driving to adaptive equipment. Their section on cognitive changes that may affect driving abilities is especially helpful if you’re seeing memory or judgment slip while driving. Click here to see their post.
3 Prompts to Guide Your Next Steps
1. Recognize the Red Flags
“Pay attention to changes that show driving safety is slipping.”
“Pay attention to changes that show driving safety is slipping.”
- Getting lost on familiar routes
- Trouble with intersections or stop signs
- Slower reactions or missed cues from other drivers
- New dents, scrapes, or near-misses
- Anxiety or confusion behind the wheel
👉 If you’re noticing these patterns, it’s time to start the conversation, not wait for a crisis.
2. Clarify the Legal Landscape
“Understand what your region requires.”
“Understand what your region requires.”
- In some states or provinces, physicians must report dementia diagnoses to the DMV.
- In others, it’s left to the family, though anonymous reporting may be an option.
- Even if reporting isn’t required, asking a doctor for documentation and support can ease family conflict.
👉 Call your local DMV or licensing office to confirm what’s required where you live.
3. Plan a Supportive Transition
“Think of driving retirement as a process, not a punishment.”
“Think of driving retirement as a process, not a punishment.”
- Start small: limit night driving or high-traffic routes first.
- Offer alternatives: look into ride services, senior shuttles, or community driver programs.
- Keep routines intact: find other ways to maintain activities they enjoy.
- Validate emotions: acknowledge how hard this feels, and reassure them that safety and dignity come first.
⚡ Pro tip: Always separate the person from the decision. You’re not taking something away from them, you’re putting safety around them.
You’re Not Alone
Stepping in around driving is never easy, but waiting too long can put everyone at risk. Support is out there, from doctors and driving specialists to community transportation options.
Download my free Driving Evaluation Preparation Checklist to start gathering your observations and questions. It’s designed to help you feel prepared, not pressured, when the conversation begins.
Affiliate Disclosure
A Better Way - Dementia Care Solutions, LLC participates in the Amazon Associates Program, which means we may earn a small commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe support caregivers in their journey.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or licensed physical therapist before starting any new routine, using assistive devices, or following the recommendations mentioned. Every individual’s needs are different, and professional guidance is essential.
Notes:
1. Alzheimer’s Association. (2024). Dementia and driving: Safety and legal considerations.
2. Alzheimer Society of Canada. (2024). Transportation and dementia.
3. Alzheimer’s Society UK. (2024). Driving and dementia: What you need to know.
4. Feller & Wendt. (2024). Driving safely while aging. https://www.fellerwendt.com/driving-safely-while-aging/
5. SAGE Journals. (2023). Transitioning away from driving: Best practices in dementia care.
2. Alzheimer Society of Canada. (2024). Transportation and dementia.
3. Alzheimer’s Society UK. (2024). Driving and dementia: What you need to know.
4. Feller & Wendt. (2024). Driving safely while aging. https://www.fellerwendt.com/driving-safely-while-aging/
5. SAGE Journals. (2023). Transitioning away from driving: Best practices in dementia care.
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